The worry, distraction and shame associated with debt can take an emotional and physical toll on our health. Here’s a look at the confounding factors that make debt such an oppressive source of stress, and some tips on how you can break free.

More than a decade ago, authors Vicki Robin and Joe Dominguez helped launch the voluntary-simplicity movement with their ideas for living more richly — by spending less. Today, for many, that penny-wise approach seems smarter than ever.